Hidden Gems: The best family photoshoot locations in Brisbane & beyond (that you might not know about)

If you’re dreaming of photos that feel like you — heartfelt, unposed, and set in a space that tells part of your story — then choosing the right location is everything.

So often, families default to the same few well-known parks or beaches. But Brisbane (and beyond) is full of quiet corners, golden light, and underrated treasures that make for truly beautiful and personal backdrops.

In this guide, I’ve lovingly gathered my favourite family photoshoot locations in Brisbane, as well as a few special spots on the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, all chosen with a storyteller’s eye. These are the places that invite connection, spark curiosity in your children, and allow the magic of your everyday love to shine through.

North Brisbane Family Photoshoot Locations

These locations are perfect for families craving peaceful surrounds, nature walks and soft, gentle light.

• Boondall Wetlands – Boardwalks through mangroves and paperbarks. Quiet and full of wonder.
• Cabbage Tree Creek, Carseldine – Bush trails, little bridges, and calm textures.
• Downfall Creek Bushland, Chermside West – Hidden bushland paths with dreamy light.
• Bunyaville Conservation Park, Everton Hills – Native forest, filtered light, and peaceful bush tracks.

South Brisbane Family Photoshoot Locations

With a mix of bushland and parkland, these spots are perfect for slow strolls and barefoot moments.

• Minnippi Parklands, Tingalpa – Wide open space, big trees and golden sunshine.
• Toohey Forest, Nathan – Woodland vibes with ferny undergrowth and soft light.
• Karawatha Forest – Nature’s playground with wetland boardwalks and earthy textures.

Bayside & East Brisbane Family Photoshoot Locations

For those drawn to salt air, sea breezes, and timeless coastal nostalgia.

• Wynnum Esplanade – Boardwalks, fig trees, and classic bayside charm.
• Lota Boardwalk – A quieter alternative to Wynnum with gentle tides and space to explore.
• Wellington Point Reserve – Sunset-lit shores, shady fig trees, and rocky edges.
• Thorneside Wetlands – Peaceful and wild-feeling with mangrove beauty.

West Brisbane Family Photoshoot Locations

These options offer open spaces, rolling hills, and heritage charm.

• Sherwood Arboretum – Iconic fig trees, riverside jetties, and open lawns.
• Pullenvale Forest Park – Forest meets paddock; ideal for rustic, nostalgic images.
• The Reservoir – A peaceful bushland retreat with a walking trail around the reservoir, serene water views, and abundant birdlife.
• Mount Coot-tha Forest Trails – Tucked-away trails with filtered light and rainforest textures.

Inner Brisbane Family Photoshoot Locations

Sometimes, magic is just around the corner if you know where to look.

• New Farm Park (secret corners) – Beyond the rose garden, you’ll find shaded spots and fig trees with personality.
• Orleigh Park, West End – Riverbank charm and jacaranda season sparkle.
• Highgate Hill Park – A quiet city lookout with a storybook view.
• McWhirters Carpark Rooftop – Bringing all the urban city views and golden sunset light.

Greater Brisbane & Ipswich Hinterland & Surrounds

Winding country roads, paddocks kissed by light, and the kind of stillness that invites connection — welcome to the slower side of family storytelling.

• Ipswich Meadows – A beautiful glowy meadow that is often filled with fluffy grass. This special spot is a little secret spot that is a favourite amongst my clients.
• Wivenhoe Dam – Wide open space, still water reflections, and eucalyptus-dotted landscapes make this peaceful location perfect.
• Twigley Farm – A lovingly restored countryside retreat near Ipswich, offering vintage interiors, open paddocks, a tranquil 200-meter dam, and curated spaces like Linning’s House and The Forager glamping tent.
• Daisy Fields – By far my most sought after spot, the daisy fields is privately owned and extremely limited when it comes to timing and availability, but I do hold a small number of sessions here each spring that always book out as soon as they are released.

Gold Coast Family Photoshoot Locations

For coastal hearts and lovers of lush hinterland scenery.

• The Spit Dog Beach – Grassy dunes, white sand and endless ocean views.
• Tallebudgera Creek (North Side) – Calm waters, soft sand and iconic teal tones.
• Currumbin Beach – Beautiful golden light and dramatic rocky backdrops.
• Currumbin Valley Rock Pools (off-peak) – Rustic, refreshing, and wild.
• Burleigh Headland (back trails) – Elevated ocean views and forest paths.
• Hinze Dam Parklands – Still water reflections and wide open space.
• Pizzey Park – A dreamy pine forest with golden sunset lighting.
• Tamborine Mountain Flower Farm – Five acres of meticulously maintained gardens and vibrant flower fields
• Dahlia Patch – This private property is home to a stunning rustic shed and the oh so darling dahlia patch which flowers during Autumn.

Sunshine Coast Family Photoshoot Locations

These locations are where stillness meets wild beauty — perfect for meaningful, slow moments.

• Currimundi Lake Conservation Park – Where the lake meets the sea, perfect for wading and wandering.
• Point Cartwright – Headland views, rock pools and a softer kind of sea breeze.
• Shelly Beach – A secluded stretch of coastline with rock pools, rugged cliffs, and soft golden light.
• Buderim Forest Park – Wooden bridges, waterfalls and cool green shadows.
• Emu Mountain – A gentle summit hike with sweeping coastal views, golden grass, and wildflowers in spring.

Don’t Forget the Magic of Home

Sometimes, the most sentimental location is your own front porch. Whether it’s cuddles on your bed, toddlers running barefoot in the backyard, or dogs lounging at your feet, home sessions hold a kind of magic that no location ever could. Your home is more than just a backdrop — it’s the heart of your story.

Ready to Choose the Perfect Location for Your Family Session?

If you’re feeling inspired by these beautiful family photoshoot locations in Brisbane and beyond, I’d love to help you choose the one that fits your family’s rhythm. Whether you’re drawn to golden coastal light, quiet forest trails, or the comfort of your own home — there’s a spot with your name on it. For more ideas and inspiration follow along on Instagram.

Now you’ve got some beautiful Brisbane location ideas, discover which season is the best for your family here.

Reach out to start planning your session. Let’s find somewhere that feels like your family’s kind of magic. ✨